Description
Description as an information structure involves discussing the physical properties, qualities, and appearance of an object. The description writing should start with a specific part, such as purpose or function. However, a generalized discussion of how an object works is also helpful. In technical writing, such as instructions, it is often crucial to use numbers and other metrics. The use of the required abbreviations and symbols is encouraged, for example, for inches (“) and feet (‘) (McMurrey, 2019). Typically, descriptions require the use of illustrations.
Comparison
Extended comparisons as information structures have as their primary goal comparing topics, objects, and their characteristics. A distinction is made between informative and evaluative comparisons. While the former compares the item with something familiar and understandable, the latter suggests and recommends. Evaluative comparisons should begin with identifying points that determine, for example, the purpose and characteristics of things. The point-by-point approach is a better way to organize information than whole-to-whole comparisons. Additionally, technical documentation needs to contain special transition markers and headings, graphs, and comparison lists.
Classification
Short or extended classifications are used to identify the class to which a given thing belongs or divide a group of objects into classes. Classification can also mean dividing a thing into categories, types, or classes and discussing them one by one. This division involves comparison and facilitates the process of selecting the correct item. A critical stage in technical reports is choosing the principle of classification, that is, a certain logic or method according to which objects are grouped into classes.
Causal Discussion
The discussion of causes and effects answers possible questions of how social, economic, natural, historical, and other events and processes occurred. Examples of causal discussion include the following questions “What are the causes and consequences of the Great French Revolution?” or “What causes the tsunami?” Causal discussions address the question of why phenomena occur and offer several response models. For example, a discussion can be based on the single cause-single effect or multiple causes-single effect model and vice versa. Stylistically, such information structure should contain causal links, headings, subheadings, lists, and illustrations.
Extended Definition
Writing extended definitions aims to define a concept or term, for example, in technical documentation. As an initial step, a formal definition and context of use should be provided. It is also essential to clarify the basic elements before diving into the details. The use of short definitions throughout the text to clarify related terms is vital in technical user guides and instructions for non-specialists.
Process Discussions
Process discussion is one of the most common and important types of text in technical writing and involves a step-by-step explanation of how things and processes happen and how they are being performed. Noninstructional process discussions consist of explanations of how the mechanism operates, how certain phenomena happen, and so on. An essential step in compiling a process discussion is to divide the procedure into phases and stages, which are groups of simple actions.
Persuasion
Persuasion as an information structure focuses on seeking to convince or reassure people of something. In technical writing, this communication strategy will be helpful in resumes, proposals, or complaint letters. A common one is the Toulmin approach to persuasion, which involves claims, rebuttal, and counter-argument addressing (McMurrey, 2019). Persuasive efforts also include the use of generalizations, emotional appeals, and other means. In addition, it is useful to use headings, subheadings, and graphs to support one’s point of view.
Reference
McMurrey, D. (2019). Information Structures. Open Technical Communication. Softchalkcloud. Web.